The Northeast Regional Classic Firefighters Challenge begins Thursday, but participants got a chance to run through the course on Wednesday.

This is the first time the competition has been to Erie in twenty years.

Lars Markwardt and Katrin Bagdhan are visiting Erie from Germany for the first time to compete in the challenge.

Markwadrt, a Batallion Chief from Germany said, "We are very proud to be there and we are grateful for the chance to represent Germany and our city's team."

The two have competed in previous challenges throughout Germany and the United States. "It's about challenging yourself, so you always want to beat your time from last time", explained Bagdhan. Competitors must endure a series of drills and obstacles in a timed event and Markwardt said he's a better firefighter by doing these events.

"I want to be a good firefighter and fit. I go to the gym and someplace else and it's better if I do something good to be a better firefighter and so others can see me as making sports from firefighting, and it's good to show other firefighters, if he can do this I can do the same."

As he prepares to compete, he has advice for anyone hitting the course. "It's very simple. Don't handle the tables yourself, you might not be the best one, but if you go on the course, you are the winner."

The competition begins Thursday in Perry Square and just a reminder, a portion of State Street will be closed during the duration of the event, so people should plan for alternative routes for Tall Ships.